Reviews for the Amor Series

Amor and Summer Secrets Reviews

5 Stars – Amazing and So Much Fun“If you like books as Sofi’s guide for getting lost in Mexico by Malin Alegria, and the How to ruin..series by Simone Elkeles, you will certainly like Amor and Summer Secrets. And if you haven’t read those, just pick this book up! The story is just amazing and so much fun. I really liked the fun narrative voice, and I really felt the Puerto Rican sun on my head and heard Spanish around me. The characters and storyline are just awesome and real. I definately want to read the next two novels in this series. The perfect spring read!”-MarjoleinBookBlog

5 Stars – Real and Heartfelt“The feelings and struggles that Mariana encounter are real and heartfelt. She struggles to come to understand what family means and how to let down her guard, even just a little. The story flows quickly and leaves the reader with a feeling of anticipation for the follow-up novel, Amigas and School Scandals. “-TeensReadToo

Keeps You Flipping the Pages“This was a really good book, I love how there’s all these twists throughtout the story which keeps you flipping the pages. I loved Vince’s character even though I know his character is completely the opposite of me. Mariana was a pretty good character; I am more like her– “never do anything wrong.”-Rima’s Book Journal

A Wonderful Book“So, I went into this book with extremely high expectations. And they were most definitely met. Wallach explained the setting wonderfully. I could understand the city, the sounds, the heat. It all flew off the page and I could see it. It almost felt like I was there, too. The other thing that was done beautifully was Mariana’s character change. She really finds herself in Puerto Rico, a place she thought she would hate. She does hate it in the beginning, but she eventually learns to love it, and to embrace her heritage. Amor and Summer Secrets is a wonderful book that will leave you hanging on until the end and keep you waiting for the sequel, Amigas and School Scandals, which I hope to get my hands on soon. It’s a wonderful book, and I really do think everyone should read it.”-Hope’s Bookshelf

Wonderful First Novel“Amor and Summer Secrets is by an up and coming new author Diana Rodriguez Wallach who has done a wonderful job with her first novel. It had enough twists and turns to keep you interested; I actually locked my door and turned off my phone for a couple hours to finish reading it. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!”-Viola / NSCG

Cute and Well-Written Story“Amor and Summer Secrets was a cute and well-written story. I really liked Mariana’s character; sure, she was spoiled and annoying at times, but she knew her flaws and genuinely tried to be a good person. I could easily relate to her struggles, especially the ones involving her family, friends, and boys. The problems Mariana deals with may see a little generic, but Wallach presents them in a realistic way that makes them appear fresh. I would’ve liked more development of the minor characters, particularly Lilly and Vince, because they were hard to understand at times, but their characterization was in the end adequate. I also liked how Mariana grew to accept and love her cultural identity. And of course, there’s enough romance, drama, and secrets to keep the plot interesting. I definitely recommend Amor and Summer Secrets and can’t wait for the sequel, Amigas and School Scandals.”-Book Divas

An Endearing Read“….I also enjoyed reading about the Puerto Rican culture. The descriptions are very detailed and precise and it kind of makes me want to go and visit even though I don’t know an ounce of Spanish. Towards the end of the book, you come to love Mariana’s family, flaws, drama, and all. I’m looking forward to reading the second book, Amigas and School Scandal as the ending of this first novel perfectly set the reader up for reading the sequel. Mariana is definitely a character I want to visit again because it’s a rather endearing book and it makes for some nice light fluff on a dreary day.”-Liv’s Book Reviews

Definitely Mucho Amor“It was very very very good…Having [the novel set] in Puerto Rico was different. And it didn’t hurt that all the scenery was so vividly described that it was easy to get into the setting…Mariana deals with everything like an actual human being probably would. She was very well developed… I really liked the book.”-Frenetic Reader

Will be Appreciated by Fans of Young Adult Drama and Romance“This book is a quick read that would likely be appreciated by any teenage girl who enjoys romance and young adult drama. Older brother Vince is featured in a few humorous scenes that would be enjoyed by males and females alike, and Mariana is able to confront some of her own character flaws throughout the events that unfold in a very believably human way. The end of story cliff-hangar definitely leaves one curious as to what happens next. Fortunately, Mariana fans won’t have to wait to find out.”-Damian Daily

5 Stars! A Fantastic Story“Diana Rodriguez Wallach tells a fantastic story that I reminded me of some of the challenges I had growing up multi-ethnic and all the sacrifices that my family made just so I could be where I am today. I laughed and cried and I even learned a few things about myself. I was so touched by the sincerity of the story. I highly recommend reading this book and following up with the next two in the series: “Amigas and School Scandals” & “Adios to All The Drama.” -Goodreads

A Fun, Well-Written NovelAmor and Summer Secrets is a fun, well-written novel about exploring your heritage, secrets, and friendship. Mariana and her two best friends seem exceedingly conceited at the beginning of the novel. All they seem to care about is spending thousands of dollars on their Sweet Sixteens. But, as the novel continues on, their personalities become more distinct. Mariana, especially, becomes a truly unique character, and not just because of her ancestry. Lilly, too, is a great character to read about. Once you get going, the plot flies by fast, but not to the point where it feels rushed. With all of the party-planning, dating, and family drama, there’s hardly a place for boredom.-Harmony Book Reviews

5 Stars! Great Summer Story “Amor and Summer Secrets was a cute and well-written story. I really liked Mariana’s character; sure, she was spoiled and annoying at times, but she knew her flaws and genuinely tried to be a good person. I could easily relate to her struggles, especially the ones involving her family, friends, and boys. I also liked how Mariana grew to accept and love her cultural identity. And of course, there’s enough romance, drama, and secrets to keep the plot interesting. I definitely recommend Amor and Summer Secrets and can’t wait for the sequel, Amigas and School Scandals. ” -The Book Muncher

5 Stars! A Tale for Women of All Ages “I loved this book! “Amor and Summer Secrets” is a story that will be enjoyed by women of all ages. Diana Rodriguez Wallach has written a tale that teenagers will be able to relate to and enjoy, however, she also gives it a depth that allows it to reach out to older women. I found myself reminiscing about my own teen angst years. I also think that the aspect of the story that involved the heroine learning to accept an important part of her heritage is extremely important for teens today. They need to be proud of who they are. That is so much more important than how much they have. I highly recommend this book!”-P. Lovitt, Amazon

A Fun Read“It has romance and drama all surrounding a great cast of characters. The best part is that Mariana is likeable, relatable and you can’t help but enjoy joining her on her summer adventure. This book really hooks you in and then at the end leaves you hanging with an amazing cliffhanger. I can’t wait to join Mariana in the sequel, Amigas and School Scandals in October.” -Tempestt

Charming and Entertaining“Amor and Summer Secrets is a charming and entertaining coming-of-age story. The characters are entertaining, and I enjoyed spending time in Puerto Rico with them all. I am looking forward to Diana Rodriguez Wallach’s next novel, which picks up where this one leaves off: Amigas and School Scandals, coming in November from Kensington. ” -Connie Harris, MyShelf

A Wonderful Book“Readers will enjoy reading this book and will devour the book cover from cover; it really does capture your attention. The author’s writing and fast-paced storyline pulls you in from the start,add Mariana’s strong, easy to relate to character, you will find an excuse to put everything off and finish the book. Being the first in the series, readers will eagerly await the sequel due November 2008.” -BookLuver Carol

A Fantastic Debut“While the voice of Mariana is very much chicklit, there’s still another layer there that makes it more than just a novel about summer love, and that mainly has to do with the aforementioned secrets and the rich details that fill this novel. Much of the action takes place in Puerto Rico, which almost becomes a character in its own right with the way Wallach describes it all- the weather, the customs of the people, the simplistic lifestyle, etc. The ending leaves the reader wanting more, but not in a huge cliffhanger way, and to quench that thirst for more, there’s a small excerpt of the second book, Amigas and School Scandals, included in the back. Definitely recommended.” -Book Chic

5 Stars! Strong, Entertaining, Contemporary “The characters, especially Mariana, make for a strong entertaining contemporary tale… The story line contains a strong cast that provides deep insight into Puerto Rican extended families with a divide between those living on the island and those residing in the States. Diana Rodriguez Wallach provides a superb intelligent tale about how friendships make a place feel like home.”-Harriet Klausner

4 Stars! COMPELLING – Page-Turner“Wallach’s debut novel is fresh, engaging and witty, with the awareness of one who truly lived the life of her characters. Her anecdotal sensibility makes the characters real and relatable, as well as full of flaws and foibles, but they are endearing and contemporary in a way that will attract young and adult readers alike.”-Lauren Brathwaite, Romantic Times

“This fast-paced and tension-filled story pulls the reader into Mariana’s world, as she experiences her first adventure off her own turf and finds love. Amor and Summer Secrets is an enjoyable read, and once you pick this book up, you won’t be able to put it down. The first of three books, it will leave you wanting to read more from this talented new author.”-Bergers Book Reviews

“Amor and Summer Secrets is a fun summer read. Mariana’s feelings are realistic, and I love how she deals with her irresponsible older brother. I think a lot of girls can relate to the situations she finds herself in.”-Mrs. Magoo Reads

Amigas and School Scandals Reviews

5 Stars – An Excellent Continuation“AMIGAS AND SCHOOL SCANDALS is an excellent continuation of Mariana’s life. It flows naturally from the end of the first book of the series into this one. I wasn’t too keen on Madison’s character in the first book, but she develops more in the second story. Lily is a constant surprise, and Mariana continually grows and adapts to the changes around her. Ms. Wallach writes a series that instant captures the reader and keeps them enthralled until the final page. She makes you feel such a part of their lives that you want to see what will happen next. And if you do want to know what happens next with the gang, pick up ADIOS TO ALL THE DRAMA.”-TeensReadToo

Just As Good As the First“Wallach’s sophomore effort and second book in her trilogy are just as good as the first, Amor and Summer Secrets. Her prose is compelling and simply amazing and it’s so much fun to read about Mariana’s life. I also loved how there were some great subplots and subtle emotion going on; all the characters have their own problems and very well fleshed out. Not one of them is two dimensional. I’m extremely excited to read the final book in the trilogy, Adios to All the Drama! These are addicting and well-written books with a Latino protagonist, and should be read by everyone.” -Book Chic

Never a Boring Moment“Whoa. I thought there a was a lot of drama in Amor and Summer Secrets but there’s so much more in Amigas and School Scandals. Mariana is back home from Puerto Rico, bring Lily with her. Her friends are still ticked off at her, her uncles don’t know about her long-lost aunt, and her brother is finally off to College. So, obviously, she has a lot on her mind. But, even with all the drama, Wallach kept everything true to the first book, and it didn’t end up like some MTV drama. The characters matured, even with all the crazy drama, which was a nice toner to the story. The plot was definitely a realistic one, because we all know how things all seem to happen at once, and there was never a boring moment. As with the first book, the ending was a bit of a cliff-hanger so I can’t wait for the third. I definitely recommend this, especially if you enjoyed the first.” -Harmony Book Reviews

Fun and Enjoyable Read“Amigas and School Scandals was a fun and enjoyable read. This novel has all the petty jealousies and dramas seen in popular teen series such as Gossip Girl and The Elite as well as deeper family scandals and potential friendship rifts that gave the story a more dramatic and suspenseful flair. Overall I thought Amigas and School Scandals was a great guilty-pleasure about friendship and family. I recommend this novel for readers who liked its prequel Amor and Summer Secrets. I look forward to the release of the third in this series, Adíos to All the Drama in January ’09.” -The Book Muncher

Entertaining Teen Drama“This is an entertaining teen drama as Mariana struggles with balancing her loyalty to her friends with welcoming her cousin, as Lilly did for her in AMOR AND SUMMER SECRETS. Mariana’s difficulties ring true with her being pulled in several directions. Fans will appreciate her return home as AMIGAS AND SCHOOL SCANDALS is an engaging contemporary.” -Harriet Klausner

Will Keep You Hooked Until The Last Page“Amigas and School Scandals picks up right where Amor and Summer Secrets left off, as Mariana leaves Utuado and her summer fling, Alex. But although summer is over, new dramas and tensions are just heating up. Teens will easily relate to Mariana’s struggles to include her cousin Lilly into her circle of friendship, while doing all she can to keep her best friends, even if it means passing up a hot guy. Amigas and School Scandals will pull you into Mariana’s world and keep you hooked until the last page. I look forward to reading the final book in this series.” -Bergers Book Reviews

Adios to All The Drama Reviews

I Liked This Book the Best!“I usually never finish a series for books, due to lack of books, or lack of interest, or both! This series, by Diana Rodriguez Wallach, is one of the first! Following two other novels, there are still secrets and more to discover about the characters revolving around Mariana. Can I just say WOW? I would never except the book to end like it did. It surprised me. In this book, there’s a page-flipping suspense with some kind of drama held on every page. The characters are more developed in ways that weren’t done in the first two. I guess since almost all the secret stuff is spilt throughout the book, and you seem to know the characters more. I really liked this series and I liked this book the best!”-Book Divas

5 Stars! – Consistent and Realistic“Throughout the entire series, Ms. Wallach has been able to keep the characters and the drama in Mariana’s life consistent and realistic. Mariana has been a wonderful person to see mature over the last six months. The story has flowed seamlessly from one book to the next. I only hope that we haven’t seen the last of Mariana Ruiz and her friends in Spring Mills. There’s so much more that can happen for her!”-TeensReadToo

4 Stars! COMPELLING – Page-Turner“This third in a series is a terrific, drama-filled novel. With the proliferation of well-to-do characters in YAs these days, the author superbly keeps the surprises, emotion and humor rolling all the way to the end. It works as a stand-alone, but it’s worth it to read the books in order.”-Lauren Spielberg, Romantic Times

Definitely The Best“I really enjoyed this three book series, but this one was definitely the best, in my opinion. Despite the fact Mariana is not one of the popular girls, she manages to stay true to herself and her own values in this book, not succumbing to any peer pressure to compromise herself. Mariana shows great self-confidence in making all the right decisions for herself, knowing she needs to live with the consequences. I enjoyed getting to know her, and I’m sorry to see this series end.” -Bergers Book Reviews

Solid Cast“The cast is solid and the subplots involving Teresa, Madison and Emily add to the overall teen angst, but no question there is only one star in Diana Rodriguez Wallach’s teen series, Mariana, who first hand understands the Loving Spoonful’s prime question of the universe (and not that of the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy): Did You Ever Have to Make Up Your Mind?. Adios to All The Drama is an interesting look at teen decision making, information gathering, and especially drama queen angst.” -Harriet Klausner